1. What is an IMEI number of the mobile handset and how can we get it?

The IMEI number is a 15 digit number unique to a mobile handset which can help in tracking your mobile phone if it is lost. Just key in *#06# on your cellular phone and it will display its IMEI number.

2. What is GPRS?

General Packet Radio Service, sometimes referred to as 2.5G, ensures customers remain connected to the network between calls for the fast receipt and transmission of dat This is particularly useful for those of you who regularly check emails and browse the web on the go. When using GPRS, charges are made on the volume of data which is transferred. GPRS is a modification to GSM. Mobile service providers offer GPRS service as an always on connection rather than traditional dialup. Messenger style applications work on GPRS too.

3. What is 3G?

Originally a pan European system but now used worldwide, 3G enables data transfer on mobiles to work at a higher capacity and speed. Data transfer was initially very slow based on old fashioned dial up technology until GPRS speeded it up. Now 3G (Third Generation) phones offer even higher data transfer rates, wider bandwidth and increased capacity to send data.
Internet access and global roaming are the benefits of 3G, and this includes video calls, video messaging, voice calls, SMS,  multimedia music players, pictures, video and gaming in real time.
Download speeds surpass that of GPRS by a big margin and this has revolutionised the mobile phone market making the multimedia Smartphone an accessible purchase. The 3G set of technologies, including the use of 3G data cards,  in the most up to date phones, allows delivery of multimedia content to you in a device resting in the palm of your hand.

4. What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a popular branded wireless technology which is used to provide data transfer for short distances between different types of devices. It does not support roaming but allows mobile phones, computers, Personal Digital Assistants ( PADs) and a wide range of other devices to be integrated over a distance of a metre.
The most popular Bluetooth handsets, and accessories have been for mobile phones, providing a wireless connection to a headset and to a vehicle's audio system for hands-free usage. It's also useful for things like downloading photos taken with your mobile to your PC. You can also use it to synchronize your mobile's personal organizer with the one on your PC.

5. What is a Wireless LAN?

Wireless LAN stands for Wireless Local Area Network, a local area network that transmits over the air. A wireless local area network allows you to wirelessly connect to your email and Internet at super fast speeds. Wireless base stations are wired to an Ethernet network and transmit a radio frequency over several hundred feet through walls and other non metal barriers.
Roaming users can jump from one access point to another like a mobile phone system. The major wireless LAN standard today is known as Wi-Fi. Wireless Wi-Fi adapters (Wi-Fi transceivers) are built into most new laptops or added via a PC card slot or USB ensuring their wireless capabilities for Internet connection.
Newer Mobile Phone  handsets such as Smartphones often have built-in Wi-Fi, creating 'dual mode' phones which operate like normal mobiles phones but have the option of switching to cheaper Wi-Fi connections when they are available.

6. What is WAP?

WAP pages are essentially web pages adapted for the smaller screen. WAP pages are frequently accessed by mobile phone users to get the latest news items about sports, for instance. WAP is a standard system for providing smartphones and other handheld devices with this access to Web pages and e-mail.
WAP uses Wireless Markup Language (WML), a simplified version of HTML ideal for small screen displays. It supports both keypad and voice recognition and works for major wireless networks and most makes of phones and handheld units.

7.  What is PIN number and what to do if SIM gets blocked?

As soon as you insert a SIM Card in any Handset it asks for PIN (Personal Identification Number) which is a password that is known to the authorized user only. The PIN code can be set to protect your SIM card from unauthorized use.  
To prevent continuous attempts to 'guess' the PIN number the SIM card automatically gets locked-up after three consecutive wrong entries. If the SIM card is locked-up, the "Blocked" message will appear and an unlocking code will be needed. Further repeat wrong entries of PIN may lead to damage of card. 
The blocked SIM can be then opened through PUK number ( PIN Unlocking code) which can be obtained from your service provider after establishing your identity. The PUK is an 8 digit code available with your cellular service provider. Also one should remember that 10 times successive wrong entries of PUK number may damage the SIM card forever. 

8.  How to protect your SIM card from getting damaged?

1. Insert and remove SIM card carefully and don't do this frequently.
2. Do not scratch, bend or twist the SIM and never write on it. 
3. Keep your SIM away from extensive heat.
4. Keep cleaning your SIM cards once in three months with soft cotton to remove any possible dust particles.
5. Keep the unused SIM wrapped in clean, non sticky paper at a safe place. 

9.  What are the types of batteries available and which is the best ?

Nickel Metal Hydride, Lithium Ion and Nickel Cadmium. Lithium Ion batteries are considered better. . What is the correct procedure of charging a battery? 

A new battery should be charged for 10-12 hrs for the first 3-4 times this makes the battery seasoned for better results and longer life. Battery should be charged only when it gets fully discharged since all the batteries are designed for certain charge cycles which should not be wasted by semi charging. Also half charged battery when put for charge, start showing false charging quickly even when the battery has not charged fully. When such batteries are put to use, they get discharged also very fast. After the initial charging as above one should follow  the normal charging procedure as displayed on the handset or given in the handset manual.

10.  What parameters should be kept in mind while buying a Mobile Phone ?

The handset should be GSM 900 / 1800 compatible. 

What parameters should be kept in mind while purchasing a handset?

1. Your budget  
2. Battery Type
3. Stand by and Talk Time
4. Size, Weight and aesthetics
5. Compatibility for SMS, WAP or GPRS etc. if required
6. Availability of features like vibra alert or port for connectivity with laptop if required
7. Other features like last calls record, phone memory, clock, alarm, calculator, games etc. should be checked before purchase according to your requirement. Some features are network dependent also.
8. If looking for camera phone, go in for the ones with larger display, better resolution, more memory, flash and zoom.
9. Fond of music then check for FM Radio and MP3 player. Phone memory, MMC card support and strong battery are important considerations for heavier audio or video files.

11.  What to choose GSM or CDMA ? How to choose a Service provider ?

GSM and CDMA are the two main competing network technologies deployed by cellular service providers world over. Understanding the pros and cons of both the technologies will help you make right decision according to your requirement.  

Consider the following while selecting a Service Provider: 

1. First of all you must check which Service Providers are providing services in the areas where you will be using your phone.
2. If you want National or International Roaming then also check whether the Service Provider you have chosen facilitates roaming in the regions or countries where you visit frequently.  
   
3. Cost of owning a handset  
   
4. Cost of having a connection  
   
5. Fixed monthly expenses  
   
6. Usage charges.  
   
7. Also it is helpful to check with the people using mobile in your area for the quality of service. 

12.  What are the access codes (PIN codes, PUK codes, security code and restriction code)?

PIN (Personal Identification Number) codes:

1. PIN code protects your SIM card against unauthorized use. It is asked when you insert the SIM card and boot up the device for the first time. It is 4 to 8 digits long and usually supplied with your SIM card. However, it is recommended to change the original PIN code to your own, the instruction on how to change the PIN code is provided in the user guide or Nokia Web site. 
2. UPIN code is usually supplied with the USIM card. The USIM card is an enhanced version of the SIM card and is supported by UMTS mobile phones.
3. PIN2 code is also 4 to 8 digits long and is supplied with some SIM cards, and is required to access certain services.
4. If you enter any of the above PIN codes incorrectly three consecutive times, you need corresponding PUK codes to unlock them. Read more about PUK codes below.

PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) codes:

1. PUK code is 8 digits long and is required to change a blocked PIN code.
2. UPUK code is required to change a blocked UPIN code.
3. PUK2 code is required to change a blocked PIN2 code.
4. The PUK codes are also provided by your network operator or service provider.

Security code/Lock code:

1. The security code or lock code protects your device from unauthorized use.
2. The default code supplied with the device is 12345. However, it is recommended to change the default code to your own. The instruction on how to change the security code is provided in the user guide or Nokia Web site.
3. Keep the new code in a safe place separate from your device.
4. If you get error notifications after 3 consecutive times security code entries, reboot the device and wait for 15 minutes, then try again. If the problem persists, contact your operator or local Nokia Care Point.

Restriction code/Restriction password:

1. The restriction code or restriction password may be required when using some network services, such as call restriction service. Note that not all network operators support such service.
2. If your device display "Enter restriction code" when you insert a new SIM card, it means that your device has been locked to use a certain operator's network and it does not accept SIM cards from other operators.
3. Contact your network operator or service provider for assistance.

Other PIN codes:
The module PIN is required to access the information in the security module of your SIM card.
The signing PIN may be required for the digital signature. 
 
Important! If you do not know or forget any of these codes, always contact your network operator or service provider.

1 3.  How do I get the best performance from GPS?

We recommend that you make use of AGPS to speed up the connection time for your GPS. AGPS uses your Mobile Internet connection to connect to a Nokia server that tells your device which GPS satellites it will be able to connect to, substantially reducing the time taken to get a GPS fix.
In case you use a device with integrated GPS receiver, please have a look into the manual of your device on the location of the GPS receiver. When using the GPS receiver, hold it upright in your hand at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, with a clear view of the sky. Make sure that your hand does not cover the GPS receiver. The time it takes to establish a GPS connection may vary between a few seconds and several minutes. Establishing a GPS connection in the car may take longer.
Note: The GPS operations take their power from the battery. Using an internal GPS receiver or a Bluetooth connection to an external GPS receiver may drain the battery faster.

If no satellite signal is found, consider the following:

1. Check that your hand does not cover the GPS receiver.
2. If you are indoors, go outdoors to receive a better signal.
3. If you are outdoors, move to a more open space.
4. If the weather conditions are bad, the signal strength may also be affected.

For External GPS Devices: If Bluetooth is not already switched on, you will first be asked whether you want to switch on Bluetooth. Your mobile device will then start searching for devices available via Bluetooth technology in your surrounding areFrom the result list displayed, choose the correct entry to connect to your external GPS receiver.

You may be asked for a pass code to connect to your GPS receiver. Although this pass code is “0000” in most cases, please have a look into the manual of your GPS receiver to find out what the correct pass code is.

It may take a few minutes for the GPS to track you and for your position to be shown on the map. Remember you need a GPS connection to show your current position.

14.  What are the simple steps to try when my phone is not working properly?

These simple steps can help in a majority of cases.
Reset the device

1. Switch off the device.
2. Remove the battery.
3. After a few seconds, re-insert the battery and switch on the device.

Note: For devices with integrated battery, reboot your device as instructed in the user guide. For example with Nokia N8-00, press and  hold the power button for about 8 seconds. The device vibrates three times and switches off. To switch your device on again, press the power button.

Reset the settings

1. Restore the original factory settings as explained in the user guide.
2. Your contacts and data are not deleted in the reset.

Update the software

1. Make sure your device is running the latest software.
2. For downloads and assistance, go to www.nokia.com/support and select Software & Services tab and Device software update.
3. Remember to back up your contacts and data before updating.

1. What should I do if my phone does not power on or keeps switching off on its own?

If your phone appears to have problems with power, the problem may be with the phone, the battery, or the charger. Before bringing your phone into a Nokia Care point for inspection, please perform the following checks:

1. Fully charge the battery according to the instructions presented in the user guide.
2. Remove and re-insert the battery according to the instructions presented in the user guide.
   Note: For devices that have a battery that is not user removable, reboot your device as instructed in the user guide. For example with Nokia N8-00, press and hold the power button for about 8 seconds. The device vibrates three times and switches off. To switch your device on again, press the power button.
3. Check that you are using a Nokia battery and charger compatible with your phone model. You can find compatibility information in your user guide.
4. If you have access to another battery and charger of the same type as yours, try substituting them to determine if the issue is with the phone, the battery, or the charger.
5. Make sure your device is running the latest software. For downloads and assistance, go to www.nokia.com/support and select Software & Services tab and Device software update. Remember to back up contacts and data before updating.

If you are unable to test your phone or it still keeps switching off, please bring it to the nearest Nokia Care point for inspection.

15.  Why is my device always low on power?

If your device appears to have problems retaining power, check the following:

1. Check that you use an original Nokia battery and charger compatible with your Nokia device model. For the originality, visit www.nokia.com/support and select Battery Check under Accessories tab. For the compatibility, check your device user guide.
2. If you have another battery and charger of the same type, try substituting them to determine if the issue is with the Nokia device, the battery, or the charger.
3. Make sure your device is running the latest software. For downloads and assistance, go to www.nokia.com/support and select Software & Services tab and Device software update. Remember to backup contacts and data before updating.
4. Some applications and features, such as Bluetooth and WLAN (Wi-Fi), drain the battery. To conserve power, disable Bluetooth, WLAN and applications when they are not in use.
5. All batteries including high-quality batteries like Nokia's will eventually lose power retention capacity. If it is time to replace your battery with a new one, be sure to purchase an original Nokia battery from an authorized Nokia dealer.

For further assistance, contact your local Nokia Care point.

16.  My phone displays "SIM card rejected" or "SIM card unaccepted".

These messages may be displayed in the following situations:

1. The SIM card is out of alignment. If the phone has recently been dropped, bumped, or opened, the SIM card may need adjusting. Follow the SIM card installation instructions in your user guide.
2. The PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) code is entered incorrectly multiple times. This can inactivate the SIM card. If inactivation appears to be permanent, contact your operator or service provider for a new SIM card.
3. You have recently changed service providers. In this case, either your SIM card or your phone may be configured for your previous operator and may require reconfiguring. It may also be that your phone is configured so that it cannot be used with a SIM card from a different operator or service provider. Please contact your current operator or service provider for assistance.

If none of the situations above apply and you continue to receive this error message, your SIM card may be damaged. Please contact your operator or service provider. Or alternately, contact your local Nokia Care Point for inspection.

17.  What should I do if my phone is not ringing for an incoming call?

Try the following troubleshooting tips:

1. Ensure that your phone is on and that there is sufficient signal strength.
1. Signal strength is indicated by the signal indicators at the left side of the phone's display. These indicators move up as the strength of the signal increases and down as the signal decreases.
2. To increase your phone's signal strength, try moving your phone slightly, or move towards a window if you're calling from inside a building.
2. Check if the headset is attached to your phone. For some phone models, the ring does not come through the speaker, only through the headset.
3. If the phone's profile is set to Silent, Flight, Offline, or any other profile where ringing is silenced, it will not ring. Change the profile to General or Normal.
4. Ensure that the volume is not too low.
5.  Make sure that the call divert is not activated.
6. Make sure your device is running the latest software. For downloads and assistance, go to www.nokia.com/support and select Software & Services tab and Device software update. Remember to back up contacts and data before updating.

If the problem persists, contact your local Nokia Care Point for inspection.
 

18.  Why is my phone requesting a PIN/PIN2/PUK/PUK2 code?

Your Nokia device requests PIN (Personal Identification Number) and PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) codes to protect your SIM card and device against unauthorized use. Note that all PIN and PUK codes are provided by your operator or service provider.

Note also the following:

1. When your insert your SIM card and boot up your device for the first time, you need to enter the PIN code, the default one is usually supplied by your operator. For security reasons it is recommended to change it to your own code, instructions on how to change the PIN code in your device is provided in the user guide or Nokia web site. If the PIN code is entered incorrectly multiple times, your device may request a PUK code to further validate the user's identity.
2. The PIN2 code is a PIN code which acts as a second layer of protection for certain features of your phone.  If the PIN2 code is entered incorrectly multiple times, your phone may request a PUK2 code.

Please contact your operator or service provider for assistance with your PIN and/or PUK codes. If you have already contacted but the code provided does not work, you should obtain a new SIM card.

19.  How can I contact Nokia Care customer service?

You can find customer service contact information as well as usage tips and troubleshooting information from your local Nokia Web site. Customer service is offered directly in web site or via email and/or phone. To be directed to the customer service section of your local Web site, visit http://www.nokia.com/support and select Contact us page.